by Mike Becker | Reviewed by David Perez | Updated: Nov 15, 2023

First off, there are two charging options available for the Chevy Bolt: home сharging and Public Charging. We’ll discuss home charging in more detail below.

It’s important to note that you can buy a home charger (see our home EV Charger buying guide ), but it’s not necessary unless you plan on doing long-distance trips or live somewhere without easy access to public chargers. And although public chargers are free for most drivers, occasionally they do require payment or membership. For most people with regular daily driving needs, home charging is all you need – other than plugging into any standard 120v wall outlet which provides an extremely slow charge (see home EV Charger buying guide).

If you want to install a Level 2 charger at home, you have two options: You can either hardwire the charger directly into your electrical panel, or you can use a plug-in charging station.

Best plugin chargers for Chevy Bolt

A plug-in charging station is less expensive than a hardwired charger, but you have to remember to unplug it when you’re not using it. This type of charging station also comes with a built-in circuit breaker, so you don’t have to worry about overloading your home’s electrical system. If you have more than one plug-in electric vehicle, you can use multiple charging stations at the same time.


Best hardwired chargers for Chevy Bolt

A hardwired charger is installed by a professional and is more expensive than a plug-in charging station. Once it’s installed, however, you never have to worry about forgetting to unplug your charger—it’s always on and ready to go. Plus, because it’s hardwired into your electrical system, you can use a higher wattage Level 2 charger (up to 10 kW) without having to upgrade your home’s electrical panel.

Chevrolet Bolt home сharging

There are two options available for home charging your Chevy Bolt: Level 1 Basic and Level 2 Fast. We’ll discuss both in more detail below. It’s important to note that you can buy a home сharger (see our home EV Charger buying guide ), but it’s not necessary unless you plan on doing long-distance trips or live somewhere without easy access to public chargers. And although public chargers are free for most drivers, occasionally they do require payment or membership. For most people with regular daily driving needs, home charging is all you need – other than plugging into any standard 120v wall outlet which provides an extremely slow charge (see home EV Charger buying guide ).

Level 1 Basic: This first electric car charger option allows you to charge your Bolt at home, or anywhere that has a 120-volt, three-prong outlet. To use it, just plug the connector into your Chevy Bolt and the other end into a standard 120v wall outlet. It will take about 12 hours to fully charge your Bolt using Level 1 charging.

Level 2 Fast: The 240-volt Level 2 charger is for your home or public charging stations and provides about 25 miles per hour of charge. To use it, just plug the connector into your Chevy Bolt and the other end into a standard 240v wall outlet (example NEMA 14-50) or a dedicated charging station. It will take about 4-6 hours to fully charge your Bolt using Level 2 charging.

How to choose a home EV charger?

When you’re looking to buy a home EV charger, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Let’s take a look at the 7 most important factors:

  1. The amperage of your electric vehicle (EV)
  2. The distance from the EV charger to the nearest charging station
  3. Ample power usage by local utility company
  4. Home size and layout
  5. Your desired level of installation (a DIY or professional service?)
  6. Amount of available space in front and back of your house for installation
  7. Your budget

Home charging equipment for EVs can vary widely depending on the specifications of the vehicle you own and where you live. The type of charger that’s best for your circumstances will depend on several factors, including what your local electric utility company offers in terms of rebates or incentives, if any; outlets available at your residence; how much you’ll be charging each night; and the speed at which you need to recharge. For most Chevrolet EVs, it’s highly recommended that you hire an electrician to install a 240V/50A AC circuit for your charging equipment if one doesn’t exist. You can read more about this in our previous article titled “The best and fastest home chargers for EVs“

How fast do you want to charge?

The speed of the charger is important if you want to get a full charge in a short amount of time. Home chargers typically come in three speeds: 3.6 kW, 7.2 kW, and 11 kW. If you have a Chevy Bolt, you’ll need a charger that can provide at least 7.2 kW of power.

How many plugs do you have on your electrical panel?

The amount of power your home electrical panel can provide is also important to consider when choosing a charger. If you don’t have enough space on your panel, you may need to upgrade it in order to use a high-powered charger.

Where would you like to place your electric vehicle charging station?

Where you put your home EV charger is important, too. You’ll want to make sure the location is easily accessible and close to an electrical outlet. Some people choose to install their home EV chargers near a parking spot or outer wall that gets sun exposure, so they can warm up the battery before driving.

How important is it that you have a safe and reliable charger?

The safety and reliability of your charger is obviously an important factor to consider when choosing a home EV Charger. Some home EV Chargers utilize 24/7 active temperature control and quad-helix windings to build up power quickly while preventing overheating problems. Other home EV Chargers also prevent over charging by automatically shutting off once it’s done powering your electric vehicle. Which leads us to our next point:

Is it true that an electric vehicle charging station will save me money?

Some home EV Chargers offer valuable savings as well as smart technology such as “smart charging” which allows you to schedule specific times for your charger to turn on and off. This can help you save energy and money.

What else can the charger accomplish?

Besides smart charging, home EV Chargers come with a variety of other smart features. Some chargers have built-in Wi-Fi that allows you to monitor your charging status or control your charger remotely. Other chargers come with timers that allow you to set charging times for specific days of the week.

How much does it cost to charge an EV?

The cost of a home EV Charger can vary depending on the type and speed of the charger. Prices typically start at around $500, but can go up to $1,500 or more for high-powered chargers. It’s important to keep in mind that home EV Chargers usually come with value-added benefits like smart features, Wi-Fi control, timers, safety shut-off and 24/7 active temperature control.

AeroVironment

If you’re looking to purchase a new electric vehicle and need a charging station, there are a few things you should know. While you can purchase a wall-mounted charging station, you may also want to consider purchasing an AeroVironment wall-mounted charger. Both these options will give you the convenience of charging your vehicle while staying in your home, and are designed to be compatible with your Chevy Bolt’s J1772 electrical connector.

The Chevy Bolt has a high-power charger, drawing over 32 amps at 240 volts, or 7.68 kW, according to the AeroVironment Chevy Bolt charging specs. A clamp-on ammeter can also be used to determine the Bolt’s current draw. It can charge at a high current without requiring a large discharge, starting at 32A at 90% state of charge and tapers off to 30A at full charge.

Chevrolet Bolt EV

If you’re interested in learning more about the new Chevy Bolt EV, here’s a quick guide. You can use it as a reference point when charging your electric vehicle. There are many different chargers available, so you can choose the one that works best for your needs. Also, you can find more information about the Bolt on its Facebook and Twitter pages. The Bolt is a great choice for families as it offers an incredible amount of cargo space.

The Chevrolet Bolt can also be recharged using Level 2 Home EV Chargers. This system requires a 240-volt appliance outlet. Level 2 Charging allows you to fully charge your Bolt’s battery overnight, giving you 9.5 hours of drivetime. Level 2 charging is even more effective when you use public charging stations. This cord adds about 39 miles per hour to your range, so you can use it at home and at work.

Public Charging: Chevy Bolt Public Charging

Public Charging is available at thousands of locations across the country, and is free for most drivers. To use it, just plug the connector into your Chevy Bolt and the other end into the charging port on the public charger. The time it takes to charge your Bolt will vary depending on the type of public charger and its current state of charge.

Charging your Chevy Bolt is a breeze – just follow these simple steps and you’ll be on your way! If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help.

Where to buy an EV charger?

You can buy home EV Chargers, extension cords, and J1772 adapters from a variety of different places, including Chevrolet dealerships, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

When you’re ready to buy a home EV Charger for your Chevy Bolt, be sure to consider the factors listed above. It’s important to find a charger that meets your needs and fits your budget.

We are here to welcome you with our EV charger installation

Contact us today. Our professional electrician service  technicians will ensure your home EV Charger is installed safely and efficiently. We take pride in handling every home EV Charger installation with professional care – we know how important your Chevy Bolt EV Charger is to you.

Where is the cheapest place to charge Chevy Bolt?

  Home • 1.44KW OUTPUT (AC) Blink • 50KW OUTPUT (DC) Chargepoint • 62.5KW OUTPUT (DC)
Chevrolet Bolt EV60 kWh $5.4 $15.12 $3.24
Chevrolet Bolt EV65 kWh $5.85 $16.38 $3.51
Chevrolet Bolt EV66 kWh $5.94 $16.63 $3.56

See calculator for other options.

Comparison table

ChargePoint NEMA 14-50 plug/hardwired Home Charging Station...JuiceBox 40 Hardwired Smart EV Home Charging Station (40 Am...Siemens VersiCharge Level 2 Hardwired EV Home Charging stat...Bosch Level 2 Hardwired EV Charging station (240 Volt, 18ft...ClipperCreek Level 2 Hardwired Electric Vehicle (EV) Home C...
OverviewCharge Smarter, Not Just Faster. The Flexibility to Work with Any Home. Works with Any EV. Hardwired connections are eligible up to 50 amps.A hardwired connection that is perfect for those who want to be prepared for an EV future with more power. Professional Installation is required. The app and stable wifi make it easy to keep track of your charging.A high-powered home device. Has high WiFi signal requirements.The compact charger, despite its size, is not portable. Weatherproof design for any environment.
BrandchargepointJuiceBoxSiemensBoschClipperCreek
Amperage16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 504012, 16, 24, 32, 40, 4812, 16, 24, 3240
Cable length, ft2325201825
Enclosure Materialn/a
OutdoorYesYesYesYesYes
Wall/StandWallWallWallWallWall
WaterproofYesYes1
Weight17.621.2171414
Working temperature-40°F to 113°Fn/a-40°F to +122°F-22°F to 122°F
Warranty3 years3 years3 years3 years
CertificateUL certificate 20190607-E328478 issued 06/07/2019; Type 3R per UL 50E; ENERGY STAR qualified 06/25/19.UL & Energy StarcUL listedENERGY STAR, ETL and cETL

What Kind of Battery Does the 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV Use?

The heart of the Bolt EV is its lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion batteries are known for their high energy density, long lifespan, and low self-discharge rate, making them the ideal choice for electric vehicles1. The Bolt EV’s battery capacity is an impressive 65 kWh, providing enough power for extended trips or heavy day-to-day use.

How Far Can the 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV Travel on a Single Charge?

The Chevrolet Bolt EV offers an impressive range of up to 259 miles on a single charge, making range anxiety a thing of the past. With this kind of range, the Bolt EV can easily handle both your daily commute and longer journeys.

How Long Does It Take to Charge the 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV?

Charging times for the Bolt EV are quite reasonable, thanks to the availability of Level 2 and DC fast charging options. With a Level 2 charger (240 volts), it takes approximately 9 hours to achieve a full charge. If you’re in a hurry, DC fast charging can provide an 80% charge in just 30 minutes, or a 100-mile range. This makes the Bolt EV suitable for both home charging and on-the-go top-ups at public charging stations2.

Can the 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV Use Tesla Chargers?

Yes, it can! By using a J1772 adapter, the Bolt EV can utilize both the Tesla Wall Connector and Tesla Mobile Connector for charging. This significantly expands the charging options for Bolt EV owners and makes it even more convenient to keep your EV charged and ready to go3.

What’s the Charging Speed of the Chevrolet Bolt EUV Compared to the Bolt EV?

The Chevrolet Bolt EUV, a variant of the Bolt EV, supports a charging speed of 50kW. While slower than the Bolt EV, it’s still a practical choice for many drivers. However, the slower charging speed was noticeable, suggesting that the Bolt EV may be a better choice for those who frequently take long trips.

Does the 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV Come with a Portable Charging Cord?

Indeed, it does! The Bolt EV comes with a handy portable charging cord that can be plugged into any 120-volt three-prong outlet. This charger provides an impressive 4 miles of charge per hour of charging, making it a practical option for home charging or for emergencies on the go.

By offering advanced battery technology, impressive range, flexible charging options, and a practical portable charger, the 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV is setting new standards for electric vehicles. It’s clear that Chevrolet is committed to advancing EV technology and making electric driving more accessible to everyone.

How Do You Set Up Level 1 Charging for Your Bolt EV?

Setting up Level 1 charging for your Bolt EV is a breeze. Simply plug the provided charging cable into a wall outlet, then insert the J1772 connector on the other end into the Bolt’s charging port. A 12-hour charging session will provide you with approximately 48 miles of driving range, making this an easy and recommended way to keep your vehicle charged daily.

What Are Your Options for Charging Your 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV?

For charging your Bolt EV, you have several options:

  • Standard 120-volt home outlets (Level 1): These are readily available in most homes, offering convenience for overnight charging.
  • 208-240V outlets (Level 2): Similar to those used for your dryer, Level 2 charging provides faster charging speeds, making it a good choice for home charging if you have access to a 240V outlet.
  • Dedicated 480V+ public fast chargers (DC Fast Charging): These chargers offer the fastest charging times, making them ideal for long trips when you need to top up quickly4.

Why Should You Avoid Using an Extension Cord for Charging Your Bolt EV?

When charging your Bolt EV, it’s crucial to avoid using an extension cord connected to the charging cable. The large power draw of EV charging can cause overheating and increase the risk of fire, making it unsafe to use an extension cord.

Can You Safely Use an Extension Cord with 240V Connectors for Charging?

If the extension cord is equipped with the appropriate connectors designed for use with 240V, it can be safely used for charging your Chevy Bolt EV. However, it’s important to note that using adapters at both ends introduces the risk of a 120V device being plugged into the cord. Always make sure to use the right connectors and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Are Standard Domestic Extension Leads Suitable for Bolt EV Charging?

In general, standard domestic extension leads are neither safe nor suitable for charging a car. They typically lack waterproofing, which is essential for outdoor charging, and rarely provide the required power for effective charging. To ensure safety and efficiency, always use charging equipment that is specifically designed for your Bolt EV.

Can Your Chevrolet Bolt EV Charge at Tesla Superchargers?

In a recent development, Tesla has opened up its Supercharger network to other electric vehicle makers, making it possible for Bolt EV owners to charge their vehicles at these stations. To test this new feature, we took our Chevy Bolt to one of the 10 Superchargers that now support it and gave our vehicle a much-needed boost of Tesla juice5.

Why Should You Avoid Depleting Your Chevy Bolt EV’s Battery Completely?

Even though a low battery tends to charge more quickly, it’s generally best to avoid completely depleting your charge. Doing so can stress the battery and potentially shorten its lifespan. For the best battery health, try to keep your Chevy Bolt plugged in, even when the batteries are fully charged.

How Can Non-Professional Chargers Compromise Your Chevrolet’s Safety?

Using non-professional chargers can lead to serious safety issues and potentially compromise your vehicle. These devices may not adhere to the necessary safety standards and can expose your vehicle to risks like improper voltage, overheating, and even fire. Always use approved chargers for your Bolt EV to ensure optimal safety and performance.

What is the Amperage Limit for Most Plug-In Chargers?

Most plug-in versions of Chevrolet EV chargers, including the Level 1 charger that comes with the Bolt EV, have a limit of 40 amps. This amperage is sufficient for charging your vehicle at home using a standard electrical outlet.

What Do You Need to Achieve a Charging Rate of 48 Amps?

To achieve a charging rate of 48 amps, you’ll need a 60 amp circuit. Charging at this rate can significantly reduce the time it takes to charge your Bolt EV, especially if the battery is low. However, it’s essential to ensure that your home’s electrical system can support this load before attempting to charge at this rate6.

What Charging Speed Can You Expect With a 120-Volt Portable Charger?

Utilizing the 120-volt portable charger at 12 amps, you can recharge your 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV’s battery in as little as 27 hours. This charger comes standard with the Bolt EV and is convenient for overnight charging or when you’re on the go and don’t have access to a high-voltage charging station.

How Does a 240-Volt Charging Station Improve Your Charging Time?

For faster charging times, a 240-volt charging station operating at 32 amps will recharge your Bolt EV’s battery in as little as 10 hours. These Level 2 chargers are an excellent option for home charging if you can install a 240-volt outlet.

How Has Level 2 Charging for Bolt EVs Evolved Over the Years?

When it comes to charging and range, Level 2 charging for Bolt EVs from 2016-2021 can support up to 7.7 kW. However, the 2022 models and beyond, including your 2024 Bolt EV, offer an upgraded capacity of 11.5 kW. Given the large 66 kWh battery of the electric vehicle, it’s crucial to have a powerful Level 2 Chevy Bolt charger to efficiently replenish the battery pack7.

What Charging Times Can You Expect for Other EVs Like the e-Golf?

While the focus here is on the Chevrolet Bolt EV, it’s worth noting that charging times can vary with different EV models. For example, when charging at home with a 7.2-kW charger connected to a 240-volt power source, you can expect the e-Golf to reach a full charge in less than 6 hours. For DC fast-charge locations, it is possible to achieve an 80% charge in under an hour8.

Can Bolt Electric Vehicles Charge at Tesla Superchargers?

According to Consumer Reports, Tesla Superchargers can now charge Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles, expanding accessibility and convenience9. While this is great news for EV owners, always check to ensure compatibility with your specific vehicle model.

What is the DC Fast Charge Feature in the Bolt EV?

The 2024 Chevrolet Bolt EV offers an optional DCFC (DC Fast Charge) feature, enabling charging at CCS D.C. fast charge stations. However, it’s important to note that this option is compatible only with CCS stations and not CHAdeMO or Tesla Superchargers. Before attempting to use a fast charger, confirm that it supports the CCS standard.

To Sum Up

Efficient charging is a cornerstone of an enjoyable EV experience, and understanding your charger’s capabilities is key. Whether you’re using the portable 120-volt charger or have access to a Level 2 charging station, knowing how to best use these tools can significantly enhance your Bolt EV experience. Remember, using a charger with a higher current capacity is safe and can potentially lead to faster charging times. As EV technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more efficient and flexible charging solutions in the future.

Mike Becker
About Mike Becker Linked In
Mike is a seasoned engineer with 10+ years of experience in charging systems. He bought a Tesla Model S in 2014 and has been in love with EVs ever since. He runs a small EVSE installation business in Florida and blogs about what he loves.
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Reference

  1. https://www.energy.gov/eere/articles/how-does-lithium-ion-battery-work
  2. https://pluginamerica.org/understanding-electric-vehicle-charging/
  3. https://shop.tesla.com/product/j1772-adapter
  4. https://chargehub.com/en/electric-car-charging-guide.html
  5. https://techcrunch.com/2022/07/20/tesla-opens-up-supercharger-network-to-other-electric-vehicles/
  6. https://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/hybrid-electric/a22688627/charger-electric-car/
  7. https://www.evgo.com/learn/charging-chevy-bolt-ev/
  8. https://pod-point.com/guides/driver/volkswagen-e-golf-charging
  9. https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/tesla-opens-superchargers-to-other-electric-vehicles/
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